5 former NY Jets who are still having trouble finding jobs
By Justin Fried
2. Ashtyn Davis, S, NY Jets
The Jets have already brought back one safety this offseason in Chuck Clark. While the team did part ways with Jordan Whitehead, the Jets are reportedly still interested in re-signing Ashtyn Davis. The issue is Davis might not feel the same way.
The former third-round pick developed into a key cog in the Jets' defense last season. After playing just 13 total defensive snaps the year prior, Davis forced his way onto the field and maximized his snaps.
Davis is reportedly hoping to parlay his strong 2023 season into a starting job in 2024, but his market has been rather slow. If he's unable to land a starting job with another team, a return to the Jets is still on the table.
Davis is one of the Jets' most valuable special-teams players, and he proved last season that he should have a role on defense as well. The Jets would love to bring Davis back for another year.
1. Mekhi Becton, OT, NY Jets
Perhaps the most notable unsigned Jets free agent is Mekhi Becton. The former first-round pick has had a roller coaster of an NFL career to this point, battling both injuries and inconsistent play.
Becton's promising rookie season was followed by consecutive season-ending knee injuries that derailed his entire Jets tenure. He returned healthy in 2023, although his performance on the field was less than stellar.
Becton led all offensive tackles with 12 sacks allowed, finished fifth-worst in total pressures allowed, and was just one penalty shy of the league lead at his position. It was a difficult season for the former Louisville star.
Becton has visited with a number of teams thus far in free agency, but he hasn't been able to strike a deal just yet. Some team will take a chance on the former top prospect's raw potential, but that team won't be the Jets. His time in Florham Park has come to an end.